MS HC57

Encourages closer economic relationships between the United States and Taiwan through negotiation of a Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) and enhanced platforms including the Trade and Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA) and Digital Economy Forum (DEF).

Recognizes Taiwan as the 10th largest trading partner of the United States with 2016 bilateral trade of $65.4 billion, and notes Taiwan-affiliated companies support 1,150 jobs in Mississippi while Mississippi exported $47.7 million in goods and services to Taiwan in 2016.

Celebrates the 35th anniversary of the sister-state relationship between Mississippi and Taiwan and commends Peter C.Y. Chen, Director General of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Houston, for enhancing cooperation between the two regions.

Supports Taiwan's meaningful participation in international organizations including INTERPOL, ICAO, UNFCCC, and WHA to address global challenges and nontraditional security threats.

Commends reciprocal trusted traveler programs between the United States and Taiwan, including Taiwan's inclusion in the U.S. Global Entry program as the 12th partner worldwide and 3rd in East Asia.